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The portal vein (with its right and left main branches) and splenic vein are distended with luminal thrombosis. The superior mesenteric vein and the inferior mesenteric vein as well as their branches are completely thrombosed (mesenteric vascular occlusion).

Case Discussion

The portal venous system consists of the mesenteric, splenic and portal veins. Occlusion of portal veins causes congestion of liver, spleen and bowel loops due to increased venous pressure and the development of venous collaterals. Acute thrombosis may be difficult to detect in non-contrast basis as the thrombus may be iso or hypodense and not usually be hypedense. The diagnosis is made on portal venous phase contrast enhanced studies.